The fat woman is a beautiful plant that will fit into any interior and will not require much attention from the owner.
The second name of the fat woman is the money tree. And if there are doubts about the money, then there are none about the tree.
Despite the fact that in the botanical sense it belongs to semi-herbaceous plants, in a pot it can be formed into a real tree with a thick trunk and lush crown. You just need to follow some rules of care.
Rule number one: don't flood
The fat woman is a succulent. Succulents are plants with fleshy leaves that accumulate water. Thanks to this, they are able to withstand long droughts, recovering when it rains. But from excess moisture, they not only suffer, but often die, since with excessive moisture, the roots rot. Therefore, it is better to dry out succulents, but not overwater.
Rule number two: water on time
The fat woman will not die from drought, but it will not develop fully either. To grow a beautiful and large tree, you will have to learn to understand when to water the plant and when not. Some advise doing this once a month, some once every three days. But there is no universal recommendation. In a large pot, you need to water less often than in a small one, less in winter than in summer, more often during active growth, less often during the dormant period.
Rule three: feed wisely
Succulents are special plants. They are different from ordinary ones. For example, they need specific fertilizers, since universal fertilizers are not suitable for them. For example, they do not tolerate the amount of nitrogen that ordinary leafy plants need. Therefore, feed the money tree with fertilizers for succulents.
Rule number four: pruning
It is impossible to grow a large plant of the Crassula without shaping the crown. If you allow it to grow on its own, the plant will soon lose its decorative appearance, unevenly distribute its "branches", and begin to break or fall under its own weight.
Rule number five: check for pests
The money tree is surprisingly resistant to all kinds of pests, but it is still worth checking the leaves for unusual spots, yellowing, and the appearance of cobwebs. Especially if it stood outside or near an open window in the summer. Insecticides will help get rid of pests (spider mites, scale insects, mealybugs).
Rule number six: good lighting
The money tree is shade-tolerant, but for good growth and decorative appearance it needs good lighting. If there is not enough of it, the shoots stretch out, become thin, fragile, unsightly. They break easily and are unable to support their own weight. In summer, you can take the pot out into the garden or onto the balcony, but not in direct sunlight. It is ideal when the tree is exposed to the morning sun, and during the day it is in diffused light.
Rule seven: transplant
A young plant is replanted annually. Starting from the age of five, it is enough to replant once every 3-4 years. The soil should be light, moisture- and water-intensive. If you prepare the soil mixture yourself, add vermiculite. It not only loosens the soil, but also absorbs excess moisture, which it gradually gives to the plant as the earthen lump dries.
By following these rules, even beginners can grow a large money tree.
